Jeff Graverholt grew up in Kansas City, Missouri, with his loving parents and younger sister, Linda. He attended the University of Missouri, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering as well as his commission as an officer in the United States Navy. Even more significantly, however, “Mizzou” was also where he met the person who would become not just his wife, but indeed his life partner and the love of his life — Jessica. Jeff and Jessica met through a mutual friend 21 years ago, and they will celebrate their 19th wedding anniversary this month.

Jeff served for more than 11 years as a Navy pilot, and while he loved being a helicopter pilot and was proud to make the sacrifices required to serve his nation, he chose to take some time away from the skies after his military service ended. He obtained his MBA from the College of William and Mary and worked as an engineering project manager for five years before his original passion for flying drew him back to the cockpit. Jeff began working as a commercial airline pilot for a large regional carrier and impressed his coworkers and customers alike with his poise, confidence, professionalism, and kindness. An avid reader, a devoted family man, and a committed Christian, Jeff’s numerous personal qualities always shine through — especially his quiet strength, his compassion for his fellow man, and his sense of humor. Jeff and Jessica have served as foster parents for displaced children in their home state for the last several years, and during that time they have provided foster care for a total of six children. Their compassion is equaled only by their willingness to step up and help others in difficult situations.

In April, Jeff began to experience unexplained neurological symptoms that were at first subtle and barely noticeable, but which became steadily more pronounced over the course of the next couple of weeks. Ultimately, on May 4th, those symptoms progressed to the point of needing emergency intervention. He was taken to the hospital, where imaging revealed a large mass on his brain. He required immediate surgery to remove the tumor and is now facing a lengthy recovery process. It’s anticipated that Jeff won’t be able to return to his profession and normal earnings for at least two years, if not longer. Despite this traumatizing personal blow, Jeff and Jessica have maintained their positivity, strength, poise, and sense of humor throughout the ordeal. While Jeff and Jessica are the type of people who are always there for others in their times of need, they are also people who would never expect or ask others to sacrifice for them, which is why now, in their hour of need, we’re asking for your help in supporting them through this extremely trying time.